I knew.

She loves you a little now.

Why do you deceive yourself, my friend?
There is only one person for whom she has a permanent and deep affection--for her very charming self." The words fell into the silence of the bare room.

Michael's thin hands, tightly clenched, shook a little.
The duke bent towards him.
"Is she worth it ?" he said, with sudden passion.
No answer.

Michael hid his face in his hands.
"Is she worth it ?" said the duke again.
Michael looked up suddenly at the duke, and the elder man winced at the expression in his face.